A Kogi High Court sitting in Lokoja yesterday struck out the assassination case involving the Administrator of Ijumu local government area, Alhaji Taofiq Isa, and four others for want of diligent prosecution.
Senator Dino Melaye, representing Kogi West senatorial district, had approached the court alleging assassination attempt on his life by Taofiq Isa and four others: Ade Obege, Abdullahi Isah, Michael Bamidel and Ahmed Ajayi. But ruling on the matter, the trial judge, Fola Ajayi, noted with regrets that the prosecution counsel could not open its case despite four adjournments to enable them put their house in order. He, therefore, struck out the case for lack of diligent prosecution and gave a consequential order that the prosecution could start their case afresh whenever they are ready.
Speaking on behalf of the defence counsels, Zakari Abbas, commended the trial judge for the landmark judgement. He said the judge, having listened to all parties, the petitioners were unwilling to present their witnesses, came to the conclusion that the prosecution has not diligently pursued their case. “Hence the charge brought against the defendants has been struck out.
As it stands, there is no criminal charges against the defendants” Reacting to the ruling, Alhaji Taofiq Isa expressed joy and described the ruling as an act of God, saying that the judiciary still remains the hope of the common man. According to him, “I have forgiven those who had accused me wrongly and I am calling on all Okun sons and daughters to come together in the interest of the development of the area.”
